This newer driver can be incorporated into the ESXi installation media using Image Builder so that this issue is avoided on new installations. For more information on how to incorporate a driver into the ESXi installation media, please see Installing async drivers on ESXi 5.x (2005205).

If Image Builder is not used and the driver is updated after ESXi is already installed, ensure to reset the configuration via DCUI, so that the system UUID gets updated. This is required because part of the system's UUID is comprised of the host's management NIC's MAC address, and must also be unique.

Warning: Using the Reset System Configuration option will return all host settings to their software defaults, including any parameters customized by the hardware manufacturer. The root password will be reset to a blank value, which may allow unauthorized access to your system. All virtual machines on the host will be unregistered. It is strongly recommended to migrate or re-register all VMs on other hosts and to place the host in maintenance mode before proceeding.

To reset the system configuration via the DCUI:

Login to the DCUI by pressing F2 at the direct console of the host.

Using the arrow keys, navigate to the last option in the main menu called Reset System Configuration and press enter.

You will receive a warning message. Press F11 to confirm that you wish to reset all settings to their default values.

You will then be prompted to restart the host. Press enter to reboot the host.